Ripple Effect

by Cathy Rath

Jeannie Glazer was three years old in 1952 when her father dies in a car accident on a trip to Atlanta. Sixteen years later, as a college freshman, she is arrested during the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. She is released hours later when a sergeant announces that her bail was paid by "her pop" and tosses her an envelope of cash. Stunned and suspicious, Jeannie tells not one, convinced someone is watching her. Determined to find answers, her search closes in on a darker secret about her father's tragic death two decades earlier.

290 pages, Paperback

Published January 15, 2021

About the author

About me:

Writing has been both a career and personal passion. I completed my education at UC Santa Barbara and San Francisco State University where I am a professor. My research in health and social justice was published by the American Public Health Association. As a director of a county-wide violence prevention project, my achievements were published by the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence, which contributed to my receiving the Marin County Millennium Leadership Award on behalf of women and girls. I am also a writing coach who guides debut writers in completing their books. During the turbulent 1970s, I was involved in a variety of protest movements, and "Ripple Effect" draws upon those profound experiences. This is my first novel.

Reviews

[Teresa Romani · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished this exciting , fast paced, immensely enjoyable read that I highly recommend to all my book-loving friends.  The story is engrossing and beautifully told and it’s impossible not to root for the tenacious female protagonist along with the supportive cast of characters that make up her loving, close-knit family - even as they have opposing interests.  Honestly, it’s refreshing to read about a family who are so devoted and loyal to one another,  in spite of their differences (generational and otherwise), rather than the dysfunctional acrimonious familial relationships that seem to be the norm nowadays (in my opinion, out of some misguiding belief that such characters are more interesting or provide more dramatic effect).  As I read it I couldn’t help but think about “All the President’s Men” and what a great screenplay this book would make.  It has everything; politics, intrigue, love and loss. Would love to see a sequel!

[Manki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ripple Effect is a fast-paced historical fiction/family drama told over two decades and follows the Glazer family through several tumultuous political events in the United States during the 50s, 60s and 70s. I loved that the novel unfolded through many different characters’ perspectives, each with their own flaws and secrets, but written with such care and compassion that I couldn’t help but empathize with and root for all of them. Also, this book reminded me why I love reading historical fiction… I had learned about the persecution of the LGBTQ community in the 1950s and the Watergate scandal in the 1970s through timelines and objective descriptions in history books and classes. But this story fleshed out the people that lived through these times, the stories they carry with them, and how we can all learn from them. At its core, Ripple Effect is a story about societal injustices, the damage they inflict on not only individuals, but their families and loved ones; it is also a story of family secrets, and having the courage and love to uncover and confront painful truths.

Ripple Effect is a compelling and engrossing first novel from author Cathy Rath and I’m excited to read more from her in the future!

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fresh and truly engaging take on family dynamics and family secrets. It is as much a suspense plot-driven narrative as it is a character-driven one that make for a story with a lot of heart and undeniable intrigue. Given that it covers 2-3 different time periods, I especially appreciate the character names and dates as demarkation of each chapter. The reader is quickly drawn into the point of view and the year/decade. All that, and coming in at just under 300 pages, "Ripple Effect" is one of the most readable books you and your book group should dive into this year.

Where has author Cathy Rath been and when her next novel come to an indie bookstore near me? Keep up the good writing and I hope the community of booksellers and readers give her and this impressive debut the attention it deserves.

[Richelle Delavan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found it hard to put this book down. The author wrote such a compelling narrative, sharing enough glimpses into the family secrets that you felt you were really getting to know the various characters in addition to the chief protagonist, but still leaving you uncertain how everything could fit together. She skillfully revealed details that included intense political history and complex family relationship dynamics, weaving an exciting and moving story that was both powerful and sweet. An amazing first novel. Loved it.

[Amy G · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book ! You are swept into the Glazer family and their story from the start. The author transports you back to a time where social rights, political activism and eroding trust in our institutions are transforming our society. Walter, Jack, Grammy and Jeannie are characters you truly care about. You become part of their family. I heartily recommend this book! Every generation should learn more about this polarizing time in history.

Amy G.

[Marjorie Glantz · Rating 5 out of 5]

From start to finish, this book will keep you captivated as secrets and lies are uncovered. Jeannie’s quest for the truth about herself and her family and what she believes is justice in the world, leads her towards a political cult. Hank, a complete stranger to Jeannie, driven by guilt over one night in the 50s, shadows her life. Ripple Effect is both of their stories in a changing world during tumultuous times. A first-rate read!
-Marjorie G.

[Lola Creighton · Rating 5 out of 5]

My whole bookclub loved this book. It's a powerful, expertly written story of a daughter's fight for the truth behind a heartbreaking loss. Fast paced, and descriptive prose presents the puzzle at the start. Each character comes to life while the reader is taken through a labyrinth of twists and turns building to the surprising climax. A "can't put it down" book!

[Jeff Karlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It’s a story of three generations of a family. Although each of the family members have their own dreams and secrets, they share the common bonds that only a loving family has. It’s a great read, with some surprising twists and turns in the plot. Great character development, and a book for all ages.

[Katie Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is one that keeps you invested from the first chapter until the very end. In a remarkable way, the author makes you fall in love with each character.

An amazing story of independence, family, love, and values all wrapped into one.

Zero complaints. The author truly brought to life several generations, several political viewpoints, and several storylines seamlessly.

[Randa]

I loved this book. It grabbed and held my attention like few do with its vivid characters, relatable time in recent history and mystery. It's a fast paced, fun read and I didn't want it to end. The characters still live in my head!

[GAIL CASSEE · Rating 5 out of 5]

So glad I read this! Story gripping all the way thru. Kept raising questions and then sleuthing for answers; real mystery genre. Twists, turns, surprises by the end. Hope she writes another! Gail Cassee, Bay Area, California

[Melinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the book. The author kept me captivated with twists to the story. I found the descriptions and period details to be very accurate and relatable. Hope there is more coming from Cathy Rath.

[Carol Leifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn't put this book down once I started it! Well-drawn characters, intriguing story, it's got it all. Cathy Rath is a big talent!

[Ken Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read, SO well written, fascinating story, would highly recommend!

[heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great, fast paced read that keep the pages turning! I don’t like down time in a story, this kept me engaged the whole way through. Great book club read, as there is much to discuss afterward.

[Kirti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very original, compelling story!

[Elisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first chapter, this book kept me engaged, finishing it super quick as I could not put it down. Thank you! Can't wait to read your next book!!

[Kim]

Loved it! BUT...a little disappointed at the end. Or maybe frustrated is a better word.

[Amy Gould · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great book. I highly recommend it. I love the family!

[Melissa Kramer · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing read that I am so grateful to have found!!
Ripple Effect pulls on the heart strings with relevant topics, interesting characters and an extraordinary plot line. This book was so engaging that I couldn’t put it down and finished reading it in two days. 👏 A great book club book!
I can’t wait to read her next book! Preordering that one!